Program Manager

Organization: SeaAhead

Reports to: Director of Programs

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

Start Date: January 2026

About SeaAhead

SeaAhead is a Cambridge, MA-based public benefit corporation with the mission of supporting venture innovation for the ocean and ocean-related industries through accelerator programs, venture studio relationships, and investments.

Our ecosystem includes technologists, scientists, startups, foundations, corporations, governments, investors and other ocean stakeholders who come together to scale solutions and, in the process, generate positive environmental, social and economic impact.

Our focus areas include shipping and ports, aquaculture and fisheries, ocean intelligence, dual-use defense technologies, offshore renewable energy, scalable solutions to ocean pollution, and ocean-centric approaches to the challenges of climate change including coastal resilience and insurance technologies.

Open Innovation at SeaAhead:

Startups are developing solutions to an array of intersectional challenges across the blue economy and can play a key role in building effective, competitive, and responsible ocean-based industries. However, it is often difficult for startups to gain traction in the market, as stakeholders and supply chains can be hesitant to adopt and rely on innovations without a track record of implementation.

As a comprehensive bluetech open innovation platform, SeaAhead serves as a bridge between startups and corporations, investors, government agencies, research institutions, and non-profits that are seeking innovative solutions to challenges in the Blue Economy and marine ecosystems.

SeaAhead's Accelerator Programs:

SeaAhead runs two accelerators designed for startups at two different stages.

BlueSwell is SeaAhead’s oldest program. Built for early-stage bluetech startups, BlueSwell accepts founders who are ready to commercialize their tech or product and share our commitment to ocean impact. The program is built to help founders convert their ocean-focused concepts into profitable and sustainable businesses. Workshops cover core topics such as product-market fit, capital formation, branding, team building, and governance. SeaAhead will begin working with BlueSwell’s sixth cohort of startups in January 2026.

SeaAhead is also launching a new later-stage program for startups that are ready to start testing (“piloting”) their products with real-world customers. The program will teach startups how to prepare for and construct paid pilot projects, and the SeaAhead team will also act as a matchmaker between startups and customers. This program will run for the first time starting in January 2026.

Both programs have carefully constructed content and provide access to potential customers, investors, and partners from SeaAhead's broad and deep blue economy ecosystem.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Program Manager to play a pivotal role in scaling SeaAhead's impact as we expand our BlueSwell accelerator program and launch our second initiative, SeaAhead Pilot. In this position, you will own the operations of both programs from development through implementation, directly contributing to the growth of innovative startups that are shaping the future of the blue economy.

This is a cross-functional role where you will work collaboratively across the organization, manage semester-based interns, and represent SeaAhead within the broader marine technology and sustainability ecosystem.

Core Responsibilities

BlueSwell Operations & Expansion

• Support the development and rollout of additional program modules to enhance the BlueSwell accelerator experience
• Collaborate with program leadership to ensure seamless onboarding and ongoing support for BlueSwell participants and interns
• Design, implement, and refine systems for tracking participant feedback and program outcomes to drive continuous improvement
• Build and strengthen the startup pipeline through targeted marketing initiatives and strategic partner engagement

Pilot Program Development & Operations

• Lead the refinement and execution of the SeaAhead Pilot program framework, ensuring alignment with SeaAhead's strategic objectives and partner needs
• Support the onboarding of strategic partners and corporate sponsors to advance program initiatives
• Develop templates, processes, and operational systems for sustainable program management and scalability

Business Development & Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent SeaAhead at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to expand partnerships and enhance organizational visibility
• Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders across the blue economy to help our leadership team secure funding and unlock collaboration opportunities for SeaAhead's programs

Team Leadership

• Recruit, onboard, and manage semester-based interns who support program operations
• Provide mentorship and guidance to ensure intern success and program contribution

Qualifications

Required

• Experience in program management, operations, or related field
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously with strong attention to detail
• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Passion for ocean conservation, sustainability, and supporting entrepreneurship in the blue economy
• Self-directed work style with ability to take initiative and work independently

Preferred

• Demonstrated interest in startup ecosystems, accelerators, or venture support programs
• Business development or fundraising experience
• Event planning and execution experience

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000-75,000

Health & Wellness:

• Health and dental insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield (SeaAhead covers 50% of premium for reference plan)
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurance options including vision, life, and short-term disability
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Dependent Care Account (DCA), and transit/commuter benefits

Retirement:

• 401(k) plan with employer match (eligible after one month of employment)

Additional Information:

• Flexible work environment with three days in-person at the office per week
• This is an exempt position with no associated overtime pay
• Employment is contingent upon signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement and acknowledging receipt of SeaAhead's Employee Handbook
• Complete benefits details, holiday schedule, and vacation policies are available in the Employee Handbook

How to Apply

Please fill out the application form here: https://airtable.com/appO0qqhXijij4s9b/pagIuxZrmYNoq4p8i/form

SeaAhead is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.